Atlantic Beach Pie is a delightful combination of sweetness and tanginess that perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer. Growing up, my family would whip up this refreshing dessert for every gathering, making it a staple for beach vacations and summer parties. With its unique crust made from crushed saltine crackers and a tangy filling of lime and lemon, it’s a simple yet stunning treat. Whether you’re enjoying it after a heavy meal or serving it during a warm summer evening, Atlantic Beach Pie always brings a refreshing note to the table.

Why you’ll love this dish

You’ll find that Atlantic Beach Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. The combination of salty and sweet flavors creates a unique profile that is sure to impress. It’s also budget-friendly, using common pantry staples like saltine crackers and sweetened condensed milk.

Imagine serving this pie at your next family brunch or summer barbecue; it’s guaranteed to be the star of the dessert table. One taste, and it’ll likely become your go-to for any occasion.

"This pie is a breath of fresh air! The zestiness of the citrus and the crunch of the crust elevate it to a must-have for any summer gathering!" – A happy Atlantic Beach Pie lover.

How this recipe comes together

Creating Atlantic Beach Pie is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy the creative journey of baking. First, you’ll prepare the crust using crushed saltine crackers combined with butter, sugar, and egg white. After a quick freeze and bake, the filling comes next. A mixture of sweetened condensed milk and zesty citrus delight ensures a creamy and tangy base. After a brief bake, all that’s left is chilling the pie, whipping up some fresh cream, and spreading it beautifully on top.

Gather these items

To recreate this delicious dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 cups crushed saltine crackers
• 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
• 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• Lemon and lime zests for garnish

Feel free to play around with ingredients; for instance, you can swap out fresh citrus juices for bottled if you’re short on time, although fresh is highly recommended for the best flavor!

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix the crushed saltine crackers, melted butter, sugar, and the beaten egg white until well combined.
3. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, then freeze it for about 10 minutes to help it set.
4. Bake the crust for about 20 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks until smooth.
6. Add the fresh lime and lemon juices, whisking again until fully combined.
7. Pour this filling into your warm crust and bake at 350°F until the center is set, about 15 minutes.
8. Let it cool for an hour before transferring it to the fridge to chill for at least two hours.
9. Finally, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie and garnish with zests if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving Atlantic Beach Pie, creativity can elevate the experience. A simple slice with a sprinkle of extra lime and lemon zest can make it look particularly inviting. Pair it with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade for a stunning summer dessert. For gatherings, consider serving small mini-pies in cupcake liners for an easy, grab-and-go option!

Storing leftovers properly

To keep your Atlantic Beach Pie fresh, store it in the fridge without the whipped cream if you have any leftovers. The crust is best enjoyed fresh, but if covered well, the pie can last for about 3 days. Be sure to rewhip the cream before serving it again to regain that luscious texture.

Helpful cooking tips

• Choose fresh limes and lemons for the best flavor; their zest adds a delightful touch that truly elevates the pie.
• Ensure that the crust is pressed firmly into the pie plate; a well-formed crust will help contain the filling during baking.
• If you’re short on time, consider prepping the crust a day ahead. Just bake and store it until you’re ready to add the filling.

Creative twists for this recipe

Looking to experiment? Try adding different flavors to your filling! For a tropical twist, incorporate some coconut or mango puree into the mix. You could also make a chocolate version by folding in cocoa powder to the filling or converting the crust to a chocolate cookie base. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

What’s the prep time for Atlantic Beach Pie?

Prep time is roughly 30 minutes, with an additional chill time of at least 2 hours.

Can I make this pie in advance?

Absolutely! The pie can be made up to a day ahead of time; just remember to add the whipped cream right before serving.

How should I store the pie?

Store it in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. Keep the whipped cream separate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use bottled citrus juices?

While fresh juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juices can be a convenient alternative if you’re in a pinch.

Related posts:

Buttermilk Pie Easy Blueberry Pie Bombs Snickers Pie Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie Buttermilk Chess Pie Easter Jello Pie